1. Hello Dale, how long have you been in Thailand?
A : I've been here since February, 1997, so just over thirteen years.
2. How long have you supported Chonburi and why?
A : I've supported Chonburi since 2002, the year they were formed. I support them because they are my local club. Prior to their existence I used to follow Thai football but, as most of the clubs were company or forces teams based in Bangkok, it was difficult to have a real affinity for any of them. However, I did have a brief flirtation with one club (no, I won't tell you which one) and I used to go and watch the national team at every opportunity. And I still do.
3. What was your first game?
A : My first game was a 3-1 win against Nakhon Pathom on May 5th, 2002. I rode around Chonburi for ages looking for the stadium and no-one I asked knew where it was! When I eventually found it, there was hardly anybody there but the football was entertaining and that enticed me to go to a few more games that season and in 2003. I'm quite proud of the fact that I've only missed one home match since 2004. And that wasn't my fault!
4. Who is your favourite Chonburi player and why?
A : Pipob On-Mo. He gives 100% in every single game and, even though he's not the biggest footballer you'll ever see, he is absolutely fearless. I also know a bit about his background and there is a lot to admire about the way he has risen to where he is now. He's Chonburi through and through. Can I also give a quick mention to Puritat Jarigarnon? He joined us from Ban Beung in the close season and has been a revelation. He's only 21 but shows a maturity beyond his years. The fact that he played a full 90 minutes in his international debut against South Africa yesterday gives you an indication as to how good he is. A lad with a bright future.
5. Anyone else in the TPL on lower leagues that catches your eye?
A : If I’m allowed to, I’ll pick an ex-Chonburi man, Nattaporn Phanrit at Muang Thong. I was genuinely sorry to see him go. I think he’s a classy centre half and very rarely puts a foot wrong. Good in the air, strong in the tackle and an accurate passer of the ball. He’s the kind of player that you build a team around.
6. Chonburi didn't make loads of signings during off season, do you think a settled squad is behind the great start to the season for you?
A : Partly but I think that Jadet’s return can’t be underestimated. He is Mr Chonburi (he’s actually Kn Jadet Meelarp, but you know what I mean) and the players love and respect him. A lot of the lads at the club have grown up with him and know exactly what he expects of them. He’s also improved as a coach since he was awarded his AFC coaching badge and uses his new found knowledge to great effect.
7. BG have a 100% record over Chonburi with 4 wins from 4 games, so you think this will play a part in the players thinking during the game?
A : No, I don’t think so but the fans certainly want to win this game to put an end to that unwanted record. Next to Muang Thong, this is undoubtedly our biggest fixture of the season.
8. Anything at Chonburi either on or off the pitch which you or not happy with or think can be improved?
A : Other than selling pies and Bovril in the snack bars, no. Over the years our management has been fantastic and got most things right. I can honestly say that there’s nothing that I’m unhappy with. There was a bit of a mix up with ticketing arrangements before the opening game of this season but that was sorted out before the second match.
9. Do you have any opinions on Bangkok Glass FC?
A : Well, Andy, as you know, I was very unhappy at the way they were allowed to buy a place in the TPL. This goes against the grain for me and represents everything that is wrong with football. However, now you’re here, and not looking like you’ll go away, there is a lot I admire about the way your club is run. There seems to be a genuinely positive relationship between the management and the fans. And the team’s not bad, either. I was also very impressed with the way we were treated at the Leo Stadium last season. Everybody was very helpful and courteous. It’s just a shame you weren’t as accommodating on the pitch.
10. Finally, an outcome of the game please...
A : I think we’ll shade it by one goal. So it will be either 2-1 or 3-2.
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